Through RI General Law §16-32-10, academic responsibility at URI is delegated to the President and the Faculty Senate. With the President’s concurrence, the Faculty Senate has the authority to formulate policy concerning teaching and research, study, exercise, discipline, and government.
The Faculty Senate has oversight of the University Manual, which contains the rules and regulations that govern faculty and students. Additional oversight functions include curriculum approval, which provides for the establishment, abolition, and merger of programs, departments, courses, and curriculum, including general education.
To facilitate its charge, the Faculty Senate is composed of a six-member Executive Committee, six standing committees, and special committees as needed. Once elected to serve a three-year term, Senators are assigned to a Standing Committee based upon their interests. Senators may also serve on joint committees of the Faculty Senate and the President.